Alexandra & James

Photography by Levien & Lens

Five years ago on a Sunday afternoon my flatmate tried to convince me to go to Chapel Bar on Auckland’s Ponsonby Road by saying, “You could meet the guy of your dreams!”
I wasn’t convinced. But lo and behold, two hours later I spotted James – it was love at first sight.

Choosing early summer to wed was an easy decision for us, it’s our favourite time of year – the flowers are out, the sun is shining, yet it isn’t too hot. We always knew we wanted to marry at St Andrews Church in Matakana, there’s something so quaint and sweet about it.

We chose the intimate Stables Restaurant to host our reception.We envisioned a modern look and feel for our day, with a colour palette of maroon, black, forest green and rose gold with a heavy styling focus on flora.

The flowers were such a highlight of the wedding. Mary-Anne from Flower & Flair was amazing. I was keen to incorporate amaranthus into my bouquet and table runner on our bridal table, but gave her creative freedom with everything else throughout the space.

I initially had no idea what I wanted for my bridal look, so went along to the Trish Peng Bridal High Tea and tried on the gown that I would eventually choose. I knew it was the one straight away. It had such a flattering silhouette with off-the-shoulder sleeves, French lace and a scallop-edged skirt.

Everything else worked around the dress. I wore a cathedral length veil, Alexander Wang rose gold pumps, a Tiffany & Co bracelet that James had gifted me on the morning of the wedding, and custom-made green onyx droplet earrings by K. Amani Fine Jeweller.

James donned a custom-made black tuxedo by Working Style, which he accessorised with a crisp white shirt, a black bow tie and Tiffany & Co cufflinks which I had given him.

We had a three-course, sit-down dinner which was absolutely delicious. Our dessert was accompanied by a three-tiered cake made by Amy’s Secret Kitchen in chocolate, red velvet and vanilla flavours, with a cute rose gold topper that read “Mr & Mrs Harris.”

Something I learned: If you can, during the lead-up to the wedding take dance lessons as a couple to prepare for your first dance. It’s a lot of fun and a bit of a laugh, and really helps get the party started.